“Bridging the Interview Gap: Insights and Solutions from Apna.co’s “Interview Readiness Index 2025”

The Interview Readiness Index 2025, released by Apna.co for India, highlights a significant gap between interview preparedness and the availability of job opportunities in the current job market. Based on a survey of over 10,000 respondents, only 32% of job seekers reported feeling adequately prepared for interviews. This reduced level of confidence and self-esteem varies across age groups, work experience, cities, languages, and professions.

This article offers critical insights into the various factors responsible for these disparities and provides actionable recommendations for both job seekers and employers to help bridge the persistent gap between the interview process and employment opportunities.

Trends in Interview Preparedness in India 2025

Work Experience

Interview preparedness and confidence levels vary significantly based on candidates’ years of experience. Those with approximately six years of experience demonstrated the highest level of interview confidence at 49%. However, this trend declines among mid-career professionals (3 to 6 years of experience), with 34%. The figures further drop to 29% among early-career professionals (1 to 3 years of experience). Freshers, with less than one year of experience, faced the greatest challenge, with only 21% feeling prepared, primarily due to anxiety, fear of judgment, and unexpected questions.

Age Group

In terms of age demographics, Gen X (45+ years) exhibited the highest level of confidence in interviews at 54%. They were followed by Millennials (25–44 years) at 36%. In contrast, Gen Z (18–24 years) and Gen Alpha (under 18) reported the lowest levels of preparedness, with fewer than 26%, being ready for interviews.

City Tiers and Profession

Geographically, candidates from Tier-1 cities led in interview confidence, with 45% expressing preparedness, followed by 32% in Tier-2 cities and 26% in Tier-3 cities.

By profession, individuals in technical roles (such as software developers and data analysts) reported 35% interview confidence. In comparison, non-technical professionals from domains like HR, sales, marketing, and operations showed a lower confidence level of 29%. Freelancers and gig workers reported the lowest level of interview confidence at 22%.

Language Medium and Educational Qualification

When segmented by language medium, English-medium candidates reported the highest interview preparedness at 44%, followed by Hindi-medium candidates at 34%, and those from regional language backgrounds at 26%.

In terms of educational qualification, postgraduates exhibited the highest level of interview confidence at 37%, followed by undergraduates at 31%, and 10th/12th-grade students at 22%.

Use of Technology

With the increasing use of AI for various purposes, many job seekers have turned to AI-based tools for interview preparation. Candidates who participated in mock AI interviews reported a 38% level of interview confidence. In contrast, those relying on traditional preparation methods showed a lower confidence level of 24%.

Critical Insights

• Decline in Interview Confidence Among Youth: Freshers and early-career professionals tend to experience lower confidence due to fear of rejection, weak communication skills, lack of mentorship, and pressure. 
• Lower Job Readiness in Tier-2 & Tier-3 Cities: Candidates from smaller cities are disadvantaged due to factors such as limited corporate exposure, poor English fluency, fewer networking options, and a deep-rooted urban-rural inferiority complex. 
• Domain-Based Confidence Gaps: Tech candidates show higher confidence due to strong market demand, frequent recruiter outreach, and portfolio-based evaluation, while non-tech aspirants struggle with soft-skill demands, market uncertainty, and lack of practical-based learning. 
• English as a Key Differentiator: Fluency in English—across tone, accent, and articulation—plays a vital role in interview success, helping candidates present their ideas clearly and professionally. 
• Rise of AI Interview Prep Tools: Tools like Interview Warmup, Yoodli, and Pramp offer mock interviews, feedback, and analytics, boosting candidate confidence and readiness through tech-driven practice.

Recommendations for Job Seekers and Working Professionals

• Develop Essential Interview Skills: Mastering both technical expertise and soft skills—like communication, teamwork, and emotional intelligence—is critical for interview success across industries. 
• Leverage Peer Networks: Tapping into peer connections can reveal hidden job openings, offer company insights, and increase chances of referrals all of which can help reduce pre-interview anxiety and boost preparedness. 
• Utilise AI Platforms for Interview Preparation: AI tools offer mock interviews, resume tips, and real-time feedback, creating a realistic preparatory environment that builds confidence and interview readiness. 
• Build Self-Confidence: Confidence grows with practice. Storytelling, positive self-talk, and mindful presentation techniques can enhance performance and reduce fear of failure. 
• Adopt a Growth Mindset: Viewing mistakes as learning opportunities allows candidates to evolve with each interview, turning setbacks into stepping stones for future success.

Recommendations for Employers

• Organise Soft Skill Development Programs: Invest in training initiatives focused on communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills. These not only prepare employees for future roles but also strengthen team dynamics and organisational growth.
• Restructure the Interview Process: Design inclusive, skill-based interviews that minimise bias related to gender, background, or location. A fair process fosters trust and encourages candidates to perform confidently.
• Support Non-Tech Candidates: Offer technical upskilling for professionals in non-tech roles like HR, Sales, and Marketing. This helps them stay competitive in a tech-driven landscape and adds value to the business.
• Deploy AI Assistants: Implement AI tools to support ongoing skill development, track performance, and provide feedback. These tools enhance personalised learning and contribute to overall employee growth.
• Integrate Feedback Loops in Interviews: Share constructive feedback with rejected candidates to guide their improvement. This boosts candidate morale and promotes a positive employer brand, encouraging future applications.

The likelihood of securing a job depends on both the candidate’s preparedness, through soft skills and technical abilities, and the employer’s ability to offer fair, unbiased interview experiences. AI plays a key role for both sides: it helps candidates improve performance and supports employers in creating structured, feedback-driven interviews. Bridging the job-readiness gap requires synergistic efforts from job seekers and employers, making collaboration essential for building a more inclusive and sustainable workforce in India.

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